Fetal Echocardiography in the UAE
Fetal Echocardiography in the UAE is a targeted, high-resolution ultrasound examination of the baby’s heart performed at Mediclinic MFM Units (Abu Dhabi & Al Ain Hubs). It is indicated for families with histories of heart defects, maternal diabetes, abnormal routine scans, or suspected fetal arrhythmias.
Who This Page is For
Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.
Pregnant Patient
Expectant mothers requiring specialized, detailed evaluation of the baby’s heart structure and function.
Referring Doctor
Obstetricians and pediatric cardiologists requiring detailed diagnostic mapping of suspected congenital heart defects (CHD).
Abnormal Screening
Patients with abnormal cardiac findings on routine scans, such as a suspected ventricular septal defect or abnormal chamber size.
Second Opinion
Parents seeking definitive confirmation of fetal cardiac health and guidance from pediatric cardiology experts.
When to see MFM
What we do
What happens during the visit
A comprehensive, dedicated cardiac scan lasting approximately 45 minutes.
Detailed explanation of the heart’s anatomy and any detected variations.
Development of a delivery plan coordinating pediatric cardiac care immediately after birth, if needed.
When urgent referral is needed
- Suspected hydrops fetalis (fluid accumulation in multiple fetal compartments).
- Persistent fetal tachycardia (>180 bpm) or bradycardia (<100 bpm) requiring medical management.
Where the service is available
Available across Mediclinic MFM hubs in Abu Dhabi (Airport Road Hospital) and Al Ain (Al Jowhara Hospital), with referral pathways coordinating care for patients nationwide.
Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM
Specialists Available
Explore each doctor’s qualifications, clinical interests and verified practice location.
Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim
Head of Unit · Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineToronto fellowship training and more than 25 years of experience, bringing together fetal diagnosis, maternal medicine and coordinated care.
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Dr. Leanne Bricker
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineExtensive experience in fetal therapy and complex multiple pregnancy, alongside international contributions to research and clinical guidance.
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Dr. Werner Diehl
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineOur team’s most experienced fetal therapist, bringing broad expertise across fetal therapies, advanced fetal surgery and complex twin pregnancy.
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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said
Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine & Obstetrics and GynecologyMore than 28 years of clinical and leadership experience, with particular interests in maternal health and prevention of preterm birth.
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Dr. Gareth James Waring
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineExtensive fetal therapy and surgery experience, alongside expertise in fetal heart conditions and prevention of preterm birth.
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Dr. Bernard Nasr
Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology · Fetal MedicineTraining in France and Spain, with clinical interests in fetal therapy, growth problems and complex twin pregnancy.
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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega
Specialist Maternal–Fetal Medicine · Associate ProfessorMore than 25 years of clinical experience, combining advanced fetal imaging with academic teaching and clinical leadership.
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Dr. Najwa Ibrahim
Consultant Maternal–Fetal MedicineCare for complex pregnancies, with interests in advanced ultrasound, prenatal screening, fetal growth and placental health.
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Dr. Howaida Khair
Consultant Obstetrics and GynecologyA seasoned obstetrician and gynecologist with a special interest in fetal medicine, prenatal ultrasound and counselling.
View Full ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.
It is a specialized, detailed ultrasound scan of the baby’s heart, looking at the structure, function, and rhythm of the cardiac chambers and vessels.
It is ideally performed between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation, although it can be conducted earlier or later depending on clinical indications.
A routine scan checks the basic structure of the baby’s heart, whereas a fetal echo uses advanced imaging to systematically inspect every vessel, valve, and flow pattern.
We work closely with pediatric cardiologists and neonatal surgeons to prepare a structured delivery and postnatal care plan, ensuring the baby receives immediate treatment.
No, it uses safe diagnostic ultrasound waves (sound waves, not radiation) and carries no risk to the mother or baby.
It detects the vast majority of major congenital heart defects, though some minor defects (like small holes) or changes in circulation after birth may not be visible prenatally.
Getting Here & Access
Our two hubs cover the country: Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital in Abu Dhabi and Mediclinic Al Jowhara Hospital in Al Ain. Patients from Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and the Northern Emirates typically attend the Abu Dhabi hub, while Al Ain and Eastern Region families are seen locally. Referrals are coordinated so travel is minimised and, wherever possible, imaging, counselling and any procedure are grouped into as few visits as possible.
Insurance & Coverage
Across both hubs we work with major UAE insurers including Daman (Thiqa and Enhanced), ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation vary by plan and emirate, so our team confirms eligibility and arranges approvals before you travel. Self-pay packages are available nationwide.
Areas We Serve
Book a Clinical Consultation
Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.